Using The Shower Bag - Thoratec HEARTMATE II Instructions For Use Manual

6 Patient Care and Management

Using the Shower Bag

Although the external components of the HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System are
moisture-resistant, they are not waterproof. Take care to protect external system
components from water or moisture—outside in heavy rain or snow, and always for every
shower. If the external system components have contact with water or moisture, the patient
may receive an electric shock or the pump may stop.
When taking a shower, the patient must shield all external components from water by
placing them into the water-resistant Shower Bag. This includes protecting the System
Controller, System Controller power cables, driveline, and two HeartMate 14 Volt
Lithium-Ion batteries with attached battery clips. The Shower Bag must be used for every
shower (Figure 6.1).
The Shower Bag features a translucent top panel that allows a patient to view the System
Controller's user interface while showering. The driveline and System Controller power
cables exit the Shower Bag through double zippers along the side. The Shower Bag has an
adjustable shoulder strap for optimal positioning to reduce pulling on the driveline exit site.
The Shower Bag also incorporates two loops and a belt. It can be worn around the waist to
further secure the bag to the patient's body. Two belt loops, one on each side of the bag,
allow the bag and belt to be worn on either the patient's right or left side.
6-14
Translucent
Top Panel
HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System Instructions for Use
Shoulder
Strap
Figure 6.1 Shower Bag